The Agility of the Dolphin

Category

Library Item

Item no

24726

Title

The Agility of the Dolphin, Figure 36 from The Art of Swimming

Description

A drawing of a naked figure immersed in water illustrating a swimming technique described in the 17th century volume, 'The Art of Swimming'.

Artist / maker

Thevenot, Melchisedech

Date

1699

Size

6.0 x 8.8 cm

Type

Etching

Location

Reference Library

The accompanying text reads: This way teaches to descend and come up again in the water to take breath, and after having respired, to dive down again. You may Swim fifty paces under water in the Summer, without taking breath, which has saved many Peoples lives. After two or three strokes you must dive, the deeper the better and more safe, so you have the light; you may advance forward, or keep yourself under water in the same place as long as you can hold your breath: When you can hold it no longer, you come up to breathe, and then dive again, as often as the necessity of respiration requires. There are several sorts of dangers which may oblige us to take this method.

Exhibitions with this item

Other views of this item

Related images

Related subjects

Landscape > Water > Rivers and streams

People > Adults > Men

Sport and leisure > Activities > Swimming

Read how our collections have inspired people taking part in events, visits and community groups. Use the slider or navigation arrows to see more responses.